Category: Saugatuck Blog

Day 1

Arrive by late afternoon and begin your romantic getaway by checking into one of our many idyllic properties—we’re talking crackling fires, thoughtful hospitality, and cozy spaces made for unwinding together. Explore a list of charming inns, B&Bs, and vacation rentals with warm, welcoming fireplaces here.

Once you’re unpacked, head to our walkable downtown areas to explore our many inspiring art galleries, like LaFontsee Galleries, Amwazi Contemporary Art, Button Gallery, LebenArt Studios & Gallery, Capizzo Studio Gallery, and J. Petter Galleries. Along the way, stop in our boutiques and specialty shops and pick up something special to take home and commemorate your stay. Winter here is a beautiful time to browse—peaceful, unhurried, and full of surprises waiting behind every door.

As the light starts to wane, retreat to a private igloo at The Cottage (reservations can be made here). Settle into your heated dome for exquisite craft cocktails, shareable appetizers, and a cozy, intimate experience that feels tailor-made for a holiday celebrating love.

Finish your first evening with dinner at Ladybird or The Singapore Room, two inviting spots known for thoughtful menus and warm ambiance. This is your time to slow down and reconnect before heading back to your room to bask in the glow of the fire.

Day 2

Enjoy breakfast at your B&B or treat yourselves to one of these recommended places to fuel the day ahead (please check our business hours listing to see what’s open). Then bundle up and embrace the beauty of the season with a scenic winter hike. Explore the peaceful trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park or the Saugatuck Natural Area. If the snow is deep, rent snowshoes from Landsharks and make it a true winter adventure.

Nothing will warm you up afterward quite like a wine tasting at one (or more) of our four local wineries: Modales, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, Michigan Wine Co., and Crane’s Winery. For a more elevated experience, book a guided tasting at Modales or Fenn Valley. Be prepared to purchase a few bottles to enjoy back in your room!

After a late lunch (we recommend The Southerner, Wally’s Bar & Grill, The Butler, El Jaripeo, or Root Café), unwind with a couple’s massage at Bella Vita Spa to melt away any remaining winter tension.

Don’t forget to make time for a sweet stop. Grab a hot cocoa or a warm chai from Respite Cappuccino Court or Uncommon Coffee Roasters, and a shared dessert from Retro Bakery or from The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry. After all, February was made for treats.

End the day with an exceptional, elevated dining experience at one of our many restaurants that feature seasonal ingredients and an intimate ambiance. Here are our recommendations for the most romantic restaurants in the Art Coast. And if your visit is happening during Valentine’s weekend, know that you’ll need to book a reservation in advance.

Day 3

After a late brunch, ease into the day with a hands-on experience that lets you connect in a new way. Maybe you’ll learn new techniques in a private cooking class with Chef Jim LaPerriere of Distinctive Dining or explore French-inspired flavors through a Lulu Cadieux cooking workshop. If you’re in the mood to move, a private ballroom dance lesson is a fun way to laugh and connect. Or lean into your creative side by making a kokedama at Puddingstone or pouring your own candles at Garsnett Beacon for some sweet little keepsakes from your weekend together.

Then, get some warm drinks for the road. Pick up a latte or hot chocolate from Brew Sisters or Uncommon Too before your next winter adventure—a winter sleigh ride you’ll never forget. Few experiences say “romance” quite like dashing through the snow in a horse-drawn open sleigh. Arrange a private 40-minute sleigh ride through the woods with Wild West Ranch, or opt for a private horseback ride at Rise & Ride Ranch for a different magical, storybook moment.

Finish out your weekend with a decadent dinner at one of the other romantic restaurants you were dying to try.

Have a bit more time? Extend your stay and add to your adventure with the following activities.

A Winter Walk at Oval Beach
Even in February, Lake Michigan has a way of making simple moments feel special. Head to the shoreline to look for rare natural wonders like “ice volcanoes” and sculpted ice spheres formed by winter winds and waves.

Skate On An Ice Ribbon
Use Saugatuck/Douglas as your charming home base and take a short 20-minute drive to the Holland Ice Park, featuring a refrigerated skating pond, a 700-foot skating ribbon, and a dedicated curling sheet.

Hunt For Treasures
Spend a leisurely afternoon antiquing together for vintage décor and collectibles at Saugatuck Antique Pavilion, Featherstone Antique Mall, and Lost and Found Lakeshore, in search of hidden gems to bring home.

For the…

Arts Lover

Home to over 20 galleries and artist studios, Saugatuck/Douglas is the perfect place to find incredible artwork. Extraordinary ceramics, paintings, sculptures, and other handcrafted treasures can be found at Capizzo Studio, Amazwi Contemporary Art Gallery, Mr. Miller’s Art Emporium, Button Gallery, LaFontsee Galleries, J. Petter Galleries, Ox-Bow House, Now & Then, DUNE Gallery, and Fernwood 1891, just to name a few. Also, be sure to explore Ruth Crowe Artist Studio, The Laffing Glass, Cellar Door Trades, Polka Dot Mitten, Dawn Stafford’s Peachbelt Studio, LebenArt Studios & Gallery, Jeff Blandford Gallery, and James Brandess Studios & Gallery for unique pieces to delight any art lover on your list. For a complete listing of all our galleries and studios, click here.

For those who love experiencing the arts firsthand, gift an SCA Art Pass from the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Passes can be used for performances, classes, concerts, or camps. Or, for the ultimate hands-on creative experience, consider a gift card to the Ox-Bow School of Art.

For the…

Home Decorator

At Brackett & Company, you’ll find urban contemporary, French country, and elegant estate-quality home and garden accessories perfect for the discerning decorator. Home décor enthusiasts will adore the mix of vintage and new finds at Upscale Mercantile, and Kim Neuens Design & Interiors, or the glowing selection of candles, oil lamps, and art glass at Bright World Candle Co. Garsnett Beacon Candle Company also offers delightfully scented vegan soy candles and wax melts for cozy winter nights.

Plant lovers will appreciate a handcrafted English-style terracotta pot or a beautiful pre-potted Kokedama moss ball garden from Puddingstone, while The little pp features charming accents for any garden. For the antique lover in your life, Saugatuck Antique Pavilion and Lost and Found Lakeshore offer treasure troves of vintage finds.

Pop into It Is What It Is and The Owl House for festive and fun home accessories, handmade treasures, and unique gifts. And don’t forget Tuck’s of Saugatuck, a year-round Christmas shop that features stunning collectible ornaments from Old World Christmas, Christopher Radko, Kurt S. Adler, and more.

For the…

Foodie & Entertainer

Your favorite gourmand is sure to appreciate a pre-packaged gourmet gift basket from the Farmhouse Deli & Pantry, or you can create your own mix with their thoughtfully sourced charcuterie offerings and a jar of their Backporch BBQ Sauce. To show some extra love, top things off with a gift card that can be applied toward their delicious deli offerings. Other ways to please someone’s palate are with Michigan-made edible gifts from Crane’s Pie Pantry, The Butler Pantry, and American Spoon. A seasonal favorite to share with friends is American Spoon’s Holiday Jam, a festive, limited-release blend made from a merry combination of figs, sour cherries, tart cranberries, and holiday spices.

For the freshest, most aromatic herbs, spices, and teas available from around the globe, explore the exotic offerings from Spice & Tea Merchants. Or stop by The Olive Mill for small-batch and artisanal extra-virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world. Food lovers will also enjoy a gift basket or gift card from Isabel’s Market + Eatery, featuring specialty foods and local favorites. If your loved one’s caffeine cravings lean toward java, surprise them with a bag of specialty coffee and an insulated mug from Uncommon Coffee Roasters.

For craft beer enthusiasts, pick up a six-pack (or two) from Saugatuck Brewing Company or The Mitten Brewing Company. Wine and cider lovers will appreciate a bottle from Fenn Valley Winery, Crane’s Winery, Modales, Michigan Wine Company, or Virtue Cider. You can also browse curated selections at Wine Sellers of Saugatuck or The Shop at Borrowed Time for exceptional wines from other regions.

Along with being the largest fine art gallery in the area, J. Petter Galleries offers wines from around the world, remarkable wine-themed gifts, and other items perfect for the entertainer in your life. For exquisite handmade charcuterie boards, hand-blown glassware, and French table linens, visit Lulu Cadieux—and consider adding a gift card for one of their classic French cooking classes or boutique items.

And don’t forget to pick up a gift certificate from one of our many fabulous restaurants for a truly memorable stocking stuffer.

For the…

Fashion-Forward

For the fashionista in your life, TOTU Boutique offers European-inspired styles, while Brass Anchor Co. and Duffield Lane bring cozy, classic looks to any wardrobe. You’ll also find on-trend women’s clothing and accessories at Articles Boutique, Chantal Fashion, Endora Bohemian, Postcards from Paradise, The James, Brick + Ivy Market, and Glik’s.

For clothing and accessories for that stylish guy on your list, explore Chantal for Him, Oak + Leather Men’s Mercantile, Kindel & Company, and Sunday Drive. Each offers a curated mix of casual and refined pieces, along with distinctive accessories that make an impression.

For your favorite outdoor adventurer, Landsharks carries a wide selection of outerwear and activewear alongside unique Saugatuck clothing. Woosah Outfitters brings a nature-inspired edge to apparel and accessories, while Saugatuck Traders features timeless sportswear for men and women. And for fun printed tees and sweatshirts, check out Big Monkey, where you can choose from over 400 pre-made designs for that perfect gift.

And don’t forget the accessories! Dazzle someone special with stunning, handcrafted fine jewelry from Koorey Creations. Discover covet-worthy statement pieces at Endora Bohemian and handcrafted fair trade jewelry at Lucia’s World Emporium. For inspiring and unique sterling silver necklaces, earrings, and rings, be sure to check out the Blue Wildwood Jewelry Boutique and Santa Fe Trading Co. And for vintage jewelry, stop by Now & Then.

If stylish footwear is on the list, stop by For the Love of Shoes to explore popular brands or House of Leon for luxury hand-sewn shoes and other handcrafted homewear items. Stylish shades can be found at the Sunglass Shoppe, which offers the largest selection of Maui Jim Sunglasses in Michigan, while Grins of Saugatuck features upbeat wearables, including conversation-starting novelty socks.

For the…

Bibliophile

Skip the big chain booksellers. The Book Nook is a locally owned independent bookstore offering new and gently used books, puzzles, and literary gifts for readers of all ages.

For the…

Little Ones

Discover whimsical, thoughtfully curated toys at The Teeny Tiny Toy Store, or explore Saugatuck Drug Store for a selection of stuffed animals and stocking stuffers sure to bring smiles to every child on your list.

For the…

Furry Members of Your Family

Spoil your beloved pet with a new collar, chew toy, or whimsical holiday hat from Lakeshore Pet Boutique and Bubs’ & Betty’s, both of which also offer pet-themed items for humans and their homes. Or pick up a new bandana, food bowl, or specialty treat at LUXE Saugatuck for a gift that’s sure to earn tail wags.

For the…

One Who Has Everything

For those who value experiences over things, Saugatuck/Douglas has a wide variety of captivating experiences that make incredible gifts for your loved ones. Activities include ballroom dance classes, private cooking classes, charter boat fishing excursions, private boat cruises, coffee roasting sessions, horseback or carriage rides, and private wine tastings. For a list of what’s available, please see our Experiences page.

The Spirits of Singapore

There’s nothing creepier than a thriving town that suddenly vanishes from existence. That’s exactly what happened to the town of Singapore, located along the banks of the Kalamazoo River, just north of where the modern-day village of Saugatuck stands today. In the 1830s, the settlement of 200 people included 25-40 houses, four lumber mills, a general store, and a bustling harbor. By the 1870s, the town had become a significant port for major Great Lakes cities such as Chicago and Milwaukee.

Over time, deforestation led to significant erosion and increased exposure to the brutal Lake Michigan gales, which buried homes up to the rooftops in sand.

Today, you can still see spooky remnants of the lost town when exploring Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Locals and visitors to the area have also reported seeing the Lady in White—a mournful ghost wandering through the dunes where the town’s remains lie.

The Haunting of Felt Mansion

The most infamous haunted locale in the area is the Felt Estate mansion, a luxurious summer home built by Chicago inventor and prominent businessman, Dorr Felt. The 12,000-square-foot mansion included three floors, 25 rooms, and a ballroom, along with a farm, beach house, and petting zoo, and was intended to be a dream home for his beloved wife, Agnes, and their four children.

In 1928, only six weeks after moving in, poor Agnes died, followed a year and a half later by Dorr. After staying in the family for 20 years, the property later became a Catholic prep school (attended by Pope Leo XIV).

Today, the property is open for weddings and tours, during which many have reported supernatural encounters. These include doors that open and close on their own and shadowy specters in the library, ballroom, and bedrooms—suspected to be Agnes and family members who never got to enjoy the place Dorr Felt called “Agnes’ house.”

Interested in exploring this haunted mansion? Check out the Felt Estate’s Hauntings & History Nights in October for tales of close encounters and a guided, candlelit tour of the property’s darkest corners.

An Artist’s Tragic End

The Ox-Bow School of Art & Artists’ Residency is known as an idyllic retreat for creative souls in search of inspiration. Tucked away in the woods near a sparkling lagoon, artists from all over the world visit the 115-acre campus each year to teach, learn, and make art. Tragically, one artist who lived at the school never left.

Mary Kay Bettles, a beloved caretaker at Ox-Bow, lived with her partner in a quaint cabin at the edge of Tallmadge Woods. Sadly, Mary Kay drowned while chasing after her dog onto the ice. Today, her cabin is used as housing and studio space for faculty, students, and visiting artists, many of whom have reported encountering Mary Kay’s spirit.

The cabin, now affectionately known as “The Mary Kay,” is featured during Ox-Bow Goes to Heck. This family-friendly, school-sponsored event includes an outdoor carnival, games, crafts, and more.

Whispers in the Woods

A quick trip south through Allegan County’s dark forests unveils a wealth of sinister history.

Allegan’s Old Jail Museum, an unassuming Victorian structure, hides an unsettling presence within. Many visitors have encountered the mischievous spirit of a nine-year-old girl who scampers the floors, opening closets and drawers. It’s believed that she drowned in a nearby lake over a century ago, and her spirit was unleashed when a Bible containing a lock of her hair and pressed flowers was donated to the museum.

The museum, popular with ghost hunters and operated by the Allegan County Historical Society, is open to the public for free.

While you’re in the area, be sure to spend time exploring the trails of Fennville’s Allegan Forest, which are rumored to be haunted by the “Melonheads.” These large-cranium creatures are said to have escaped from an experiment gone wrong and now inhabit the West Michigan wilds—terrorizing locals and visitors alike.

While traversing the woods, you might also encounter the charred remains of the Yellow Hotel, also known as the Wildwood Hotel. Al Capone and his gang would often hide out in the area during the 1920s and may have spent time at the hotel, which featured underground escape tunnels and quicksand where Capone could easily dispose of bodies. The ghosts of these hapless victims now haunt the dense Fennville woods.

For more urban legends and campfire stories like these, along with an interactive GPS-guided adventure through the woods, visit the Allegan Forest Museum of Campfire Stories.

Places to Stay

The AmericInn and Best Western are traditional hotel options, but families with younger children will appreciate the added draw of indoor pools. For a stay that feels more like home, try a vacation rental from Mill Pond Realty Vacation Rentals, Shoreline Realtors Vacation Rentals, or Vacasa Vacation Rentals. Or, for a more traditional inn experience that welcomes children, the Maplewood Hotel, built in 1860, is located in the heart of Saugatuck and within walking distance of all downtown Saugatuck attractions.

Things to Do

If you know anything about the Midwest, you know that a visit to the local apple orchard is a must. Our area resides along a 30-mile stretch known as Michigan’s “Fruit Belt”—an agricultural region of abundance where apples and pumpkins are plentiful in the fall. Enjoy some apple picking, as well as fresh cider and donuts, at Crane Orchards. Then challenge your family through their 20-acre, intricately designed corn maze. The corn maze is available September through October, and maze designs are changed each year. Other fun fall activities at Crane’s include a tractor-driven hayride and a cow train that the little ones are sure to enjoy.

Virtue Cider not only offers delicious hard cider for the adults to enjoy but is also situated on an idyllic working farm that is open for families to explore. The outdoor area just outside the craft cidery’s tasting room features picnic tables, fire pits, yard games, and even a playhouse. The picturesque farm is home to heritage breed animals such as Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs that children will get a thrill out of seeing. During the fall, Virtue Cider hosts many family-friendly special events.

For the quintessential Saugatuck water experience that family members young and old will enjoy, take a ride on the Star of Saugatuck Cruise. This 51-ton double-decker paddlewheel boat traverses the Kalamazoo River into Lake Michigan, giving you a relaxing view of the town, harbor, and scenic natural areas. Cruises start in May and go through October, offering a fun and different perspective on fall colors.

For an activity the kids will never forget, hike the Ball and Chain. Take the hand-cranked Chain Ferry (the last of its kind in the US) and then head up 302 steps to the top of Mt. Baldhead to get a bird’s eye view of the Kalamazoo River, downtown area, and Lake Michigan in all of its autumn splendor. You’ll also catch a close-up glimpse of the Mount Baldhead Radar Tower, a Cold War relic dating back the 1950s and one of the most iconic sights along the Saugatuck shore. Kids will love running down the sandy dune on the west side of the mountain, which will bring you to Oval Beach, recognized as one of Condé Nast Traveler ’s “Top 25 Beaches in the World.” Bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy while admiring the scenic shoreline—you may need some energy for the trip back!

Rent bikes from Big Lake Outfitters or Blue Star Barns and explore our bike-friendly towns, stopping along the way to enjoy a bite to eat. Biking from Saugatuck to Douglas is a breeze when you use the bike lane along the Blue Star Highway. Or ride along the Beach to Bayou Trail, which is a short but sweet (less than 2 miles) trail that starts/ends at Wade’s Bayou on Kalamazoo Lake and runs down Center Street taking you to the waters of Lake Michigan at Lakeshore Drive.

Where to Eat

There are many family-friendly restaurants in Saugatuck/Douglas. To experience a local favorite for breakfast, stop by Ida Red’s Cottage, known for its cozy vibe and delicious comfort food. For an incredible view of the Kalamazoo River, The Southerner serves delicious southern fare along with some gracious southern hospitality. The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry makes a great stop for lunch featuring fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, a juice bar, and delectable desserts.

Scooter’s Café and Pizzeria is a local family favorite offering indoor and outdoor seating with a lovely river view. For more than 60 years, The Butler has been a downtown favorite for families, serving fresh seafood and classic American fare—including the famous Butler Burger—on its scenic waterfront patio. And truly offering something for everyone, Saugatuck Brewing Company is a wonderful place for lunch or dinner with craft beer on tap for the adults and plenty of kid-friendly meal options.

And no family vacation in Saugatuck/Douglas would be complete without a visit to Kilwins Chocolates for a sweet treat. Watch fudge and caramel being made the old-fashioned way in shiny copper kettles, on marble slab tables, and crafted with wooden paddles. Family members of any age will enjoy trying their original recipe ice cream in handmade waffle cones or a hand-dipped caramel apple.

There’s nothing more romantic than a charming Bed & Breakfast, and Saugatuck/Douglas has no shortage of them. A few of our favorites offering luxurious accommodations perfect for celebrating love include the Wickwood Inn, the Judson Health Colonial Inn, the Belvedere Inn, and the Hotel Saugatuck. For a full listing of all the quaint B&Bs in the area, check out our website here.

Day 1

After a sumptuous breakfast at your B&B, take a stroll along the downtown area of Saugatuck and explore the many shops, boutiques, and galleries featuring a wide array of artwork, jewelry, clothing, and home décor. Grab lunch at Wicks Park Bar & Grille before taking a 90-minute ride on the Star of Saugatuck paddleboat, where you can admire the fall colors in all their glory as you cruise along the Kalamazoo River into Lake Michigan. Afterward, stop by Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream for a sweet treat, like some hand-crafted Mackinac Island-style fudge to share. Plan on toasting each other with a craft cocktail from New Holland Spirits Tasting Room, followed by a romantic and decadent dinner at Bowdie’s Chophouse.

Day 2

Begin your day with an invigorating stroll along Oval Beach, and get ready to be dazzled by a sparkling freshwater sea that reaches all the way to the horizon. Your uninterrupted view of Lake Michigan’s expanse could be streaked with whitecaps or be as smooth as glass, depending on the day. After you’ve had your fill of the breathtaking views (as if that’s possible), get ready to spend the day savoring the fruit of the vine with a wine-tasting tour of our local wineries. Explore the art of winemaking with a behind-the-scenes tour at Modales, Fenn Valley Vineyards, and Michigan Wine Co. and discover what makes the Southwest Michigan region so special for crafting fine wines. In between stops, have lunch at Root Café in Fennville for a fusion of flavors that will delight your senses. Finish out your day with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the Allegan woods with Wild West Ranch, followed by an unforgettable farm-to-table dinner at Salt of the Earth in Fennville.

Day 3

It’s time to experience fall’s bounty with some quality time spent apple picking at Crane Orchards, where you can also indulge in some fresh cider and donuts. Snuggle up for a tractor-driven hayride and then challenge yourselves through their 20-acre, intricately designed corn maze, available September through October. Lunch at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery is a must-do, as is ordering their famous Pie Flight, which allows you to sample four of their delicious fruit pies. Next, it’s time to take a scenic ride through our picturesque region to admire all the fall colors. Arrange for a ride in an antique pre-war era open Ford Model A car with Antique Joy Rides for a romantic and relaxing way to tour the area. Your personal chauffeur will drive you through downtown Saugatuck and Douglas, on the quiet back roads by the Felt Mansion, and along the high bluffs of Lake Michigan with its stunning views. If riding around under your own power sounds more like your vibe, you can rent bikes from Big Lake Outfitters or Blue Star Barns. Cap off your evening with an intimate dinner and craft cocktails at Coast 236, where Chef Rick Bower brings Michelin-trained techniques and a passion for sustainable, locally inspired cuisine to every dish.

Day 4

Venture out for breakfast on this day and dine at Pennyroyal Café and Provisions, where the ingredients are ultra-fresh and locally sourced. You’ll need some hearty sustenance as you take to the trails to experience the fall colors at their peak. Explore the gently rolling dunes and shoreline of the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area or the sandy forest paths of Saugatuck Dunes State Park. For a more intense challenge, climb up the steps to Mt. Baldhead and treat yourselves to the breathtaking panoramic views of the area. Afterward, book a greenhouse or outpost at Virtue Cider for a private retreat to enjoy some hard cider, snacks, and each other’s company on their idyllic 48-acre farm. Arrange for a couples massage with Bella Vita Spa and relax for a bit before enjoying dinner and drinks at Borrowed Time in Douglas.

Have a bit more time? Stay for a week and add to your adventure with the following activities.

Take a craft beer tour.
Discover our region’s finest microbrews with a craft beer tour at Saugatuck Brewing Company, Noble Twist Taphouse, and the Mitten Brewing Company. Charter a private tour through Coastal Tours, The Bottle Run, or Untapped Sights & Tours for worry-free transportation.

Go for a gallery stroll.
Explore our many galleries and artist studios to discover fine art in every medium. Check out the Saugatuck Center for the Arts and Ox-Bow House for exhibits and open markets.

Admire the sunset.
Go on a sunset cruise along Lake Michigan through the end of September on the Schooner Serenity or through Sailing on Desire (or through October on the Star of Saugatuck.) Or arrange for a luxury sunset picnic on Oval Beach for a thoroughly unforgettable romantic experience.

The townsizing travel trend is not about checking off big-city landmarks or racing through packed itineraries—it’s about seeking out destinations with heart. Townsized travel invites you to slow down, settle in, and soak up the magic of smaller towns where every moment feels more personal and every interaction feels more real. If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering into a gallery just because it caught your eye, lingering over breakfast without checking the time, or chatting with a local shop owner who gives you tips you won’t find on Google, then Saugatuck/Douglas is your perfect vacation spot.

Here’s why we think you should townsize your next vacation in the Art Coast:

1. A Slower Pace That Lets You Breathe

Time moves differently here on the Art Coast—and that’s the point. With no pressure to hustle from sight to sight, you can ease into your days. Enjoy lazy mornings with coffee and conversation, meandering strolls through downtown, or impromptu stops at roadside farmstands. After all, don’t you deserve a vacation where your itinerary is written by mood, and not a to-do list?

2. Nature That Slows You Down—in the Best Way

Whether it’s walking along the shoreline at Oval Beach, kayaking along the Kalamazoo River, or hiking the quiet trails of Saugatuck Dunes State Park, nature is part of the everyday rhythm here. No need to rush—just move at your own pace and take it all in. It’s the kind of beauty that doesn’t ask for attention, but earns it anyway.

3. Inspiration Around Every Corner

Home to dozens of artists, galleries, and studios, the area pulses with creativity, but never feels commercial. Discover hidden sculptures, visit open studios, or catch a show at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Find your next piece of pottery at Jeff Blandford Studio or Fernwood 1891. The Art Coast is inspiring without being intimidating, and you’ll leave with stories you’ll treasure forever.

4. Authenticity, Everywhere You Look

There’s nothing manufactured here. From family-owned B&Bs to one-of-a-kind experiences, Saugatuck/Douglas is built on real people sharing real passions. Grab a coffee at Respite Cappuccino Court, browse the curated finds at Endora Bohemian, and treat yourself to a farm-to-table meal at Salt of the Earth that feels like it was made just for you. When you stay here, you’re not just visiting—you’re living like a local.

5. Events That Feel Like Home

From art fairs and farmers markets to music in the park and harborfront festivals, local events in Saugatuck/Douglas feel more like community gatherings than tourist attractions—which is exactly the point. There’s no dress code, no pressure, and no need to impress. Just come as you are and always feel welcome.

If life has no meaning without first savoring a good cup of joe, head over to Uncommon Coffee Roasters in Saugatuck or Respite Cappuccino Court in Douglas, where you’ll find expertly roasted beans and seasonal blends for your morning caffeine fix. Or stop by Biggby Coffee in Saugatuck for a delicious latte or iced coffee on the go.

Short for “glamorous camping,” glamping is all about combining the best parts of the outdoors with the creature comforts of home. You get the campfire, the quiet, the forest views, and the stargazing—but also fresh linens, electricity, and a real roof over your head. Think plush pillows and mood lighting rather than sleeping bags and bug spray. It’s about unplugging without feeling like you’ve given anything up.

And for travelers seeking more sustainable, immersive ways to connect with nature and recharge, glamping hits the sweet spot. It’s a low-impact yet luxurious way to enjoy the great outdoors with no massive carbon footprint attached.

And lucky for you, glamping has found its way right here on the Art Coast® of Michigan!

Explore Our Ale Trail 

Craft beer lovers will find plenty to savor in our local brew scene. Kick back with a stop at Mitten Brewing Company, known for its baseball-inspired atmosphere, delicious Pizza Flights, and creative brews. You also won’t want to miss Saugatuck Brewing Company, home to 15 rotating taps and their unique Brew on Premise program, where you and your buddies can craft your own beer with expert guidance—then return a few weeks later to bottle it yourself.  Also, check out the soon to be opened Noble Twist Taphouse, offering flavorful beers and a lively outdoor Biergarten.

Plan A Bourbon Or Whiskey Tasting 

Raise a glass to an unforgettable guys’ gathering with a top-tier bourbon and whiskey tasting at the New Holland Spirits Tasting Room in downtown Saugatuck. This spot offers expertly crafted tasting flights featuring award-winning spirits, plus cocktails and light snacks to round out the experience. It’s a great place to sample bold and complex flavors, learn a little about the craft, and find a new favorite pour. Plus, you can grab a bottle to take home as a keepsake of the celebration.

Charter a Fishing Trip 

Spend a day out on Lake Michigan with a private charter from MIRYHA Charters, Best Chance Too Charters, or Big Lake Outfitters. Seasoned anglers or first-time fishermen are sure to enjoy these excursions, and a chance to reel in salmon, trout, and other freshwater catches while soaking in the scenic beauty of the lake. Whether you opt for a half-day or full-day trip, you and your crew are sure to have a “reel” great time.

Cruise Along the Water

A guys’ weekend or bachelor party in the Art Coast isn’t complete without some time on the water. Whether you’re after a laid-back cruise or an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of options to get your group out on the waves. For a touch of nostalgia, rent a retro boat—fully restored classic runabouts from the 1950s and ’60s—or a dog-friendly donut boat from Retro Boat Rentals. If you’ve got a larger crew, TFD Adventure Co. offers a catamaran pontoon with premium amenities, perfect for a private party on the water. Looking for something more high-speed? Makin’ Waves Boat Rental has jet skis ready to rip across Lake Michigan. For an easygoing and top-of-the-line outing, go all out with a private yacht experience from Yacht Boat Charters for a luxury experience.

Hit the Greens  

Tee off at one of Saugatuck/Douglas’s top golf courses. Clearbrook Golf Club features a challenging layout with stunning fairways, while The Ravines Golf Club, designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer, offers a breathtaking course that’s both scenic and rewarding. Looking for more local golf experiences? Check out our suggestions for the ultimate golf weekend here. If putt-putt golf seems more your style, try Saugatuck Mini Golf, where the guys can stay entertained while practicing their short game.

Get Competitive

Turn up the friendly competition with a variety of games and sports. Play a round of disc golf at Shore Acres Township Park, challenge the crew to a few frames of bowling at Alley’s Pizza @ Lakeview Lanes, or hit up one of the area’s pickleball courts for some fast-paced fun. Here’s everywhere in the Art Coast where you can play pickleball.

Want to get competitive without the sports? Split into teams and go on a scavenger hunt around town. Check out our hunt ideas here. Or test your knowledge with a battle of the brains trivia night in your vacation rental—think themes like action flicks, legendary athletes, and iconic rock bands—for some laid-back fun. If your group enjoys good food, rent a house with a grill and host a BBQ cook-off challenge. Cap off the evening stargazing with your closest buds.

Blaze Some Trails, Then Hit the Beach

For a breath of fresh air and a bit of exercise, start your adventure on the scenic hiking trails of Saugatuck Dunes State Park or bike along the picturesque Blue Star Trail, where the journey leads straight to the shoreline. (You can rent bikes at Big Lake Outfitters, Blue Star Barns Coffee & Bikes, or In the Elements Rental.) Once you hit the beach (and we have six to choose from), cool off with a dip in the lake and an epic game of Marco Polo. After the action, kick back on the sand, soak up the sun, and enjoy the perfect mix of thrill and chill.

Laugh It Up 

They say laughter is the best medicine and stimulates the brain. Have your bros gather their best dad jokes and offer up prizes for the most eye roll-worthy and snort-inducing knee-slappers. Or better yet, enjoy a night of live entertainment at the Coral Gables Comedy Club, where talented stand-up comedians deliver laugh-out-loud performances in an intimate setting. It’s a great alternative to clubbing while still enjoying drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Create Your Own Bar Crawl

Have the best man or your most responsible friend plan a themed bar crawl with stops at local favorites like Sandbar Saloon, Corner Bar & Grill, Phil’s Bar & Grille, The BARge, Wally’s Bar & Grill, Pumpernickels and Wicks Park Bar & Grille. Whether you’re looking for craft cocktails, live music, or a casual dive bar vibe, there’s a stop for everyone. To make the weekend extra memorable, head to Stogie’s Cigar Shoppe, where you can explore a selection of premium cigars with an expert.